For fans of American college football and ESPN commentary, Kirk Herbstreit is a familiar and respected voice. But behind the successful sportscaster stands a pillar of strength: his wife, Allison Butler. Her story is one of enduring partnership, family dedication, and recent personal challenge.
From College Cheerleader to Lifelong Partner
Allison Butler and Kirk Herbstreit's love story began at Ohio State University in the early 1990s. She was a cheerleader for the Buckeyes, while Kirk was the star quarterback of the university's football team. Their connection, forged on campus, proved to be lasting.
After dating for several years, the couple decided to make their commitment official. They exchanged marriage vows on June 13, 1998. This union has now spanned over two and a half decades, a significant milestone in the often-turbulent world of sports media.
Building a Football Family in Nashville
Kirk and Allison Herbstreit are proud parents to four sons, creating a family deeply rooted in athletic tradition. They have made Nashville, Tennessee, their primary residence, building a home life despite Kirk's demanding travel schedule.
Their family journey started with twin boys, Jake and Tye Herbstreit, born on June 18, 2000. Both attended Montgomery Bell Academy in Nashville and later played football for the Clemson Tigers at Clemson University, where they earned marketing degrees. Jake furthered his education at their parents' alma mater, The Ohio State University.
Their third son, Zak Herbstreit, was born on December 9, 2002. He also attended Montgomery Bell Academy and Ohio State University. Zak's own football career at Ohio State was cut short due to a medical condition—heart failure, as revealed by his father. He has since carved a path in sports media, hosting "Off Script with Zak Herbstreit" for On3.
The youngest, Chase Herbstreit, was born on August 7, 2007. He studied at St. Xavier High School in Cincinnati and has followed the family legacy by playing football. As of August 2025, Chase is a member of the University of Michigan Wolverines roster.
A Recent Challenge: A Breast Cancer Diagnosis
In January 2025, Kirk Herbstreit shared heartbreaking personal news with the public. During an emotional appearance on Pat McAfee's ESPN show, he revealed that his wife, Allison Butler, had been diagnosed with breast cancer.
Herbstreit described it as an incredibly difficult period for the family, compounded by other personal losses. "My wife got diagnosed with breast cancer. You know, (my dog) Ben dies. It was just a lot of emotion," he told McAfee, as reported by CNN. He praised his wife's strength and the family's resilience, stating, "And when you do what we do, you endure. You do your job."
The story of Allison Butler is more than a celebrity spouse biography. It is a narrative of a college romance that weathered the transition to fame, the joyful raising of four athletic sons, and the facing of a serious health crisis with unity. For over 27 years, she has been Kirk Herbstreit's steadfast partner, a role that continues through their latest challenge, demonstrating remarkable strength and grace.
